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PACIFIC WEST

On April 19, you can enjoy Marin County in all its gorgeous Northern California glory by participating in the Marin County Half Marathon, which also includes a 10K, 5K and Kids Fun Run. In true NorCal fashion, the race seeks to produce no waste, remain carbon-neutral, offer organic and local food, use recycled materials for its T-shirts and medals, donate proceeds to charity and encourage racers to donate old clothing and shoes. A true race for good conscience!

There are few places in the country that are as beautiful as San Luis Obispo, so take the Miracle Miles for Kids 10K event as an opportunity to go embrace that beauty. But in addition to visiting SLO, you’ll also get the opportunity to help out the Family Care Network, which works to help children and families affected by trauma, and serves more than 1,400 foster and at-risk kids and families along the central California coast. The event’s course runs along the ocean, from Morro Rock to Cayucos Pier, and post-race festivities include live music, breakfast and a sense of accomplishment.

Want to get into the spirit of mud running without a militaristic vibe? Take a more laid-back approach to the mud run craze with the Pretty Muddy Women’s Mud Run. While the 5K obstacle course is technically for women only, the event does allow husbands, boyfriends and kids to participate in their own mud run during the last wave of the day. And if you decide to bring your men or kids with you, remember that you can run the “family wave” for free after participating in a women-only wave. The event organizers also encourage costumes, the most innovative receiving a prize. Just remember to bring a change of clothes, and don’t wear anything you’d rather not get permanently stained.